MEMS safe arm device for microdetonation

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for electronically arming and firing a MEMS-scale interrupted explosive train to detonate a main charge explosive. The device includes a MEMS slider assembly housing a transfer charge electrically actuated to move between safe and armed positions of the explosive train.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is co-pending and was concurrently filed with U.S. patent application having Navy Case No. 96531.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002]The invention described herein may be manufactured and used by or for the government of the United States of America for governmental purposes without the payment of any royalties thereon or therefor.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0003]The present invention relates generally to safe and arm devices and more particularly to microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) safe and arm (also known as “safe arm”) devices for electrically arming an interrupted microexplosive train to detonate a main charge explosive.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0004]The primary purpose of a safe and arm device is to prevent accidental functioning of a main charge of explosive (military or otherwise) prior to arming, and to allow an explosive train of smaller charges to detonate the main charge after...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009]Another embodiment of the present invention includes a method for utilizing a MEMS safe arm device for microdetonation including providing a safe arm device as discussed above; operating the lockpin inductor to affect the movement of the lockpin to retract from the set of safe indentations, operating the slider inductor to affect the movement of the slider along the elongated axis of the slider aligning the transfer charge with the charge axis, and locating the transfer charge adjacent to the input charge and the output charge, thereby the device being operable in the armed position.

Problems solved by technology

Conventional mechanical safe-arm devices (MSADs) employing interrupted explosive trains are relatively large & heavy, typically the size of a 12-ounce soda can and weighing several pounds.

They are much too large for use in submunitions or micro “new tech” weapons.

However, ESADs, being exclusively electrical, contain much circuitry and many components which are physically large due to high-voltage ratings and / or derating requirements.

Thus, existing safe-arm technology, whether out-of-line (MSAD) or in-line (ESAD), is not suitable for emerging small technology applications requiring safe and arm devices.

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